Opinion
April 19, 1972
Appeal from the Erie Special Term.
Present — Marsh, J.P., Witmer, Moule, Cardamone and Henry, JJ.
Judgment unanimously reversed, determination confirmed and petition dismissed, all without costs. Memorandum: Petitioner was first employed by respondent director of West Seneca State School on August 19, 1967 and was assigned to work in Ward Six, a special, low I.Q. group of patients with serious physical and mental handicaps, needing elemental assistance. On June 12, 1970 he was suspended on charges of mistreatment of patients, and after a hearing thereon the hearing officer found him guilty of such mistreatment in that he dropped and struck patients and caused one to smoke a cigarette, something particularly harmful to the patient. Petitioner's guilt of such misconduct is not challenged in this proceeding. In his report the hearing officer recommended that a fine of $50 be imposed upon petitioner. Respondent director reviewed the report and concluded that, "I cannot in conscience impose a lesser penalty than dismissal when abuse of a resident is involved. It is impossible to give proper care to helpless and dependent people if abuse is tolerated"; and he dismissed petitioner. Special Term determined that this constituted unreasonable and excessive punishment. Upon this record we find that respondent's action was supported in fact and was neither arbitrary nor capricious. By no means does it shock the conscience of the court, but, instead, it appears to be a reasonable determination in the best interests of the administration of the School. Special Term erred in annulling that determination and imposing only the fine recommended by the hearing officer.